Kristen Brooker, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
I’ve been an animal lover and devoted pet owner my entire life. My deep connection with animals has shaped both my personal and professional journey. For nearly 10 years, I worked in the animal welfare field, running outreach programs at an animal shelter that deepened my respect and understanding of the powerful bond between humans and their pets.
I hold a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology (MACP), a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology, and a postgraduate diploma in Recreation Therapy. These educational experiences, combined with my personal journey, have equipped me to provide compassionate, evidence-based support to those grieving the loss of a beloved pet.
Having experienced the pain of pet loss myself, I know firsthand how profound and unique this grief can be. Too often, these experiences—whether the loss of a beloved companion or fear of animals—are misunderstood or overlooked, leaving people feeling isolated. That’s why I specialize in both pet loss counselling and helping clients navigate fears around animals—to provide compassionate support and a safe space where you can heal and be truly seen. My goal is to honor your experiences and help you move through these challenges with empathy, understanding, and care.
Supervised Practice
As a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO), I am currently practicing under clinical supervision, as required by the College. I receive regular supervision from a Registered Psychotherapist who supports and oversees my clinical work to ensure ethical, effective, and client-centered care.
CRPO # 18707
My counselling approach
In my work, I create a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you can feel safe to explore your feelings and experiences.
I specialize in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), which encourages you to accept your emotions without judgment and focus on living a meaningful life despite difficult or distressing emotions. I also use person-centered therapy to ensure you feel truly heard, valued, and supported throughout your healing process. Additionally, I incorporate solution-focused techniques to help you find practical ways to cope and move forward at your own pace.
My approach is flexible and tailored to your unique needs, always grounded in empathy and respect for your individual journey. Together, we’ll work towards healing and finding peace after loss.
Common misconceptions about pet loss
1. “It’s ‘just’ a pet, so the grief isn’t as real or serious.”
Many people minimize pet loss because pets aren’t human, but the bond is often just as deep and meaningful. The grief is real, valid, and deserves compassionate support.
2. “You should get over it quickly and move on.”
Grief is a personal journey with no set timeline. Everyone processes loss differently, and healing takes time.
3. “Talking about your pet too much is unhealthy or obsessive.”
Remembering and honoring your pet is a crucial part of healing. Sharing your feelings helps, it’s not a sign of being stuck.
4. “Grief over a pet isn’t as intense as grief over a human loss.”
The pain can be just as profound. Pets often provide unconditional love, companionship, and emotional support that deeply impacts our lives.
5. “You can just replace your pet with a new one.”
Every pet is unique and irreplaceable. While adopting another pet can be healing later on, it doesn’t erase the grief from a previous loss.
